Inter-Agency Refugee Emergency Response Plan SUDAN: Refugee influx from Ethiopia - November 2020 to December 2021 REVISION | May 2021
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Inter-Agency Refugee Emergency Response Plan SUDAN: Refugee influx from Ethiopia November 2020 to December 2021 REVISION | May 2021
FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH: “It’s hot here but we still play outside. I’m going to the school here and I love learning to read.” Ethiopian refugee, Legis Golu, 9 years, stands outside her shelter at Um Rakuba camp in Gedaref state, Sudan. She fled her home in Howsin with her family. Clashes between the Ethiopian army and forces from the Tigray region have driven thousands of people to flee their homes – more than half of them children. Since the fighting began in early-November 2020, more than 43,000 refugees have fled into Sudan in search of safety. The majority have crossed at Hamdayet border point in Kassala state and others at Lugdi in Gedaref state. © UNHCR/WILL SWANSON This document and further information are available on UNHCR data-portal Sudan page, please click on the following link: https://data2.unhcr.org/en/country/sdn or scan the QR code.
Contents Planned Response November 2020 – December 2021 04 Context 05 Planning Scenario 09 Response Objectives 16 Operational Response Strategy 18 Staff Safety and Security 29 Inter-Angency Coordination 32 Annexes 35 Annex 1: Financial Requirements 36 Annex 2: Map of The Operational Area 38 Annex 3: List of Appealing Organizations 39
PLANNED RESPONSE NOVEMBER 2020 – December 2021 Refugee Population Trends Requirements by Sector
100,000 WASH $44 M
Health and Nutrition $30 M
Protection $27 M
45,152 Food Security $27 M
Shelter and Non-food Items $24 M
120,000 US$ 182M 32 7,434
20,000 Logistics
$8 M
$12 M
PROJECTED REFUGEE REQUIREMENTS ORGANIZATIONS INVOLVED Camp Coordination and Camp Management
POPULATON Kassala and Gedaref Blue Nile Energy and Durable Solutions $7 M
Ethiopian refugee Ethiopian refugee
Education $4 M
population population
(as of 31 May 2021) (Projected Dec 2021)
Reifi Aroma
Reifi
Reifi Khashm Elgirba Nahr KASSALA Kassala
Atbara
Halfa D Lafa
Aj Jadeedah
Rayrah Reifi Gharb B D Gulsa
Kassala Wad D Abu Gamal
Sharife
El Kamlin Kilo 26 B Reifi
B
Al Butanah Girba Town
B Kassla
Rufa'ah B Shagarab-I
B Shagarab-II
B
El Hasahisa Shagarab-III
AL JAZIRAH
Reifi ERITREA
Um Gargour B
Wad Elhilaiw D Tahtay
Fau 5 B Shuwak
Gergef Adiyabo Erob
Mereb Leke
Abuda B Hamdayet D Shimelba
Gedaref Azaza Qarya 8 B Adwa
Al Fao
Madeinat
A (village 8) Lugdi B
Al Gedaref Kafta Humera Hitsats
Al Fashaga Werei Leke
Asgede Tsimbila Hawzen
Wasat Al Gedaref
Al Galabat TIGRAY
CTunaydbah Al Gharbyah - Abderafi
Welkait Kola
Kassab Tselemti B Mai Aini
Al Mafaza Al Qureisha Temben
Doka
B Adi Harush
Sennar
B Tsegede
Ar
El Suki Gala'a Al Nahal Enderta
Ra
Um Rakuba
h
ad
Galabat Ash-Shargiah
Hintalo Wejirat
El Qallabat
D Alaje
SENNAR Gallabat
Basundah Seyfe Arid
Metema
Matebiya
AMHARA Ofla
Abu Zor SENNAR AMHARA
Abu Zor Mahibere Silase
Marabba Marabba
Harun
Ed Damazine Harun Matebiya
Ar RusayrisEd Damazine Tewodros Ketema
Disa
El Doma
Ar Rusayris Amba Mariyam Gonde
El Roseires Quara
Gireiwa Sereiwa
Agadi
Disa
El Barun El Kharaba West
At Tadamon - BN Wad Al Mahi Omedla
Buk El Doma
Bout Kukur El Roseires
Gireiwa Magano
Wedabok Agadi Ed Damazine
Abu Mendi
El Barun
Ed Deim
ETHIOPIA
Baw
Dindiro Geisan
At Tadamon - BN Alefa Takusa
Wad Al Mahi
Keili Geissan
Buk
Menza Dangur
Ullu
Village 6 /Camp 6 Shamfoz
Al Kurmuk
Kukur Mancheleng Zela Legend
Bout Wedabok
Wadega Village 6
Pawe Office
UNHCR
BBau
Sherkole
Wisko Yabacher
Bambadi Mambuk
Guba D Crossing Point
B Tsore Dem Jummah
Dem Saad Ed Deim Guba B Dangla
Refugee Camp
BENESHANGUL GUMU Grand Ethiopian
Renaissance Dam C Refugee Settlement
D
BAW Dindiro
Bambasi B East Sudan (Kassala &
Geisan Mandera
Gedaref)
B Gure-Shombola Blue Nile State
Keili Ethiopians refugees flee to Sudan to take shelter, fleeing clashes in the country’s Tigray region,
BTongo
cross the Tekeze river into Hamdayet, Sudan.
Tongo Geissan
© UNHCR/OLIVIER JOBARD
The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations.
CONTEXT
Context -
SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
Context
Revision Rationale
The revision of the Inter-Agency refugee emergency response plan – Sudan: Refugee influx from Ethiopia, launched
on 25 November 2020, expands the time frame of the initial plan to 31 December 2021, includes the flood
preparedness and response and incorporates the refugee response for Ethiopian asylum seekers in Blue Nile. Inter-Agency
Refugee
Humanitarian partners of the emergency refugee response plan have re-prioritized their initial financial requirements Emergency
Response
and request additional USD 33 million to provide assistance to the influx of Ethiopian refugees until the end of the Plan,
Ethiopia
2021. Influx -
Nov 2020
Situation in Ethiopia
The tension between the Federal and Tigray regional governments culminated in the military confrontations that
started on 04 November and prompted the Prime Minister to declare a State of Emergency in Tigray. Armed clashes INTER-AGENCY
REFUGEE EMERGENCY
RESPONSE PLAN
SUDAN: REFUGEE INFLUX
between the Ethiopian Defense Force (EDF) and Tigray Regional Security Forces (TRSF) that were initially confined
FROM ETHIOPIA
24 November 2020
to the Western Tigray area, have then moved towards the region’s eastern and southern parts. The humanitarian
impact increased as the situation deteriorated. For for several months now, roads have been blocked and electricity,
phone and internet have been entirely or partially cut throughout the region, making communication nearly
impossible. There is a shortage of fuel and banking services have halted resulting in a lack of access to cash.
Tigray
The conflict in the Tigray region in North-western Ethiopia between federal and regional forces started in November
2020 and has affected most of the region. It has resulted in widespread displacement across the region and has had
an extensive impact on humanitarian needs. The conflict area remains reportedly affected by incidents of armed
conflict and continued displacement, with potential spill over into Sudan.
The population in the Tigray region of Ethiopia accounts for approximately 600,000 people dependent on food relief
assistance (more than 400,000 food insecure, 100,000 IDPs and 95,929 Eritrean refugees). It is expected that the
situation has deteriorated significantly since the onset of the crisis and refugees will continue to try moving to Sudan.
Benishangul-Gumuz
A further manifestation of the political crisis in Ethiopia is persistent violence and instability in the Benishangul-
Gumuz region where thousands of people have been displaced in the past months. In a recent move, the ruling
party in Benishangul sanctioned some of its officials and held them accountable for not acting in their official
capacity to avert the attack against innocent civilians in three districts in Metekel zone. Since late 2020, the situation
in Metekel has been dire. Daily attacks on civilians resulting in displacement are reported. As a result, thousands of
Ethiopians have crossed the border into the Blue Nile and Gedaref region of Sudan. While the majority of the
population is of Gumuz ethnicity, up to seven different ethnic groups have been identified so far.
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Context - SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION Refugee Influx to Sudan Kassala and Gedaref The refugee influx to East Sudan started on 6 November with individuals arriving from Humera (Ethiopia) through two border entry points, Lugdi and Hamdayet. Since then, the movement dramatically increased with a daily average of over 2,700 individuals crossing into Kassala and Gedaref. The majority of the arrivals enter through Hamdayat (Kassala State) and in proximity to “Village 8” in Gedaref State, including for example Lugdi border point. These entry points are located in extremely remote locations, only accessible via sand tracks and other non-paved roads. Both locations are expected to be inaccessible during the rainy season. By 31 May 2021 45,152 Ethiopian refugees and asylum seekers have been registered in Kassala and Gedaref. Continuous registration activities are ongoing. Blue Nile Blue Nile, located in Southeast Sudan, is host to around forty different ethnic groups. Its economic activity is based on agriculture and livestock and increasing mineral exploitation. Its borders with Gedaref state in the northeast and Sennar in the West and shares a border with Ethiopia and South Sudan in the Southeast. Blue Nile borders Benishangul-Gumuz regional state which is located in the Western part of Ethiopia. The influx of asylum seekers into Blue Nile State started at the end November 2020 from Benishangul Gumuz in Ethiopia. The majority are from the Gumuz and Berta ethnic groups and other sub-groups namely Kwama, Shinasha; Jabalween (Jabalawin); Kadhlu; Fabwein; Fawansa, Gbaween (Gubaina); Fabiro (Kabiro); Agaw-awi and to a smaller extent, Tigray. The asylum seekers arrived in Blue Nile State through six main entry points Yabacher, Menza, Manchaleng, Dem Saad, Magano and Shamfoz. They come from different localities in Ethiopia: Al Mahal; Bamaza (Mamaza); Bebe; Yaringa; Daharguba; Orchid; Aswir; and Yaminchir. Access to the entry points is a serious concern as those villages are located in remote areas with challenging road access and it takes between 4 to 6.5 hours by road from Damazine. All entry points are expected to face access limitations during the rainy season. Until 8 June, 2021 7,434 Ethiopian refugees have entered Blue Nile state in Southeast Sudan. Operational Context As of April 2021, Sudan hosts over 1.1 million refugees from South Sudan, Eritrea, Central African Republic, Ethiopia and other countries. The country faces multiple challenges, including over 300% annual inflation and fuel shortages. According to the latest International Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report food insecurity levels are the highest ever recorded in Sudan. The 2021 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) estimates that over 13.4 million people need assistance, including one million refugees, an increase of a third compared to 2020. UNHCR has an existing sub-office in Kassala, and a field office in Girba and Gedaref, which is located in close proximity to current refugee sites. UNHCR/COR manage a small transit centre at Hamdayet where wet feeding, 7 I n t e r - a g e n c y Re f u g e e E m e r g e n c y Re s p o n s e P l a n – E t h i o p i a S i t u a t i o n > M AY 2 0 2 1
Context -
SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
screening and onward transportation to a designated camp are provided. Protection and assistance services target
the protracted and newly arriving Eritrean refugees located in several camps. It also seeks to address the onward
movements of refugees. The initial interagency refugee emergency response plan had 30 appealing organizations
including 10 UN agencies and 20 NGOs. Since November 2020 the capacity of the humanitarian community to
respond to the crisis has significantly increased. However, while there are operational capacities on the ground,
these capacities need to be consolidated and expanded to provide predictable assistance until the end of 2021.
Prior to recent events Blue Nile State did not have an established refugee response. However, there are several UN
agencies and NGOs present who have offices and support local communities in Blue Nile. After the influx increased
UN agencies and NGOs were able to quickly mobilise resources to establish a response mechanism and identified a
hosting site. In February 2021 the Blue Nile Refugee Working Group was established to coordinate the response.
While the actors who are present have not been responding to refugees in the past some existing capacities are
present to provide a humanitarian response the influx of Ethiopian refugees into Blue Nile State.
Children playing at Tunadybah refugee settlement.
In support of the Government of Sudan’s response to the influx of refugees from Ethiopia’s Tigray region to
eastern Sudan, UNHCR and partners, and other UN agencies set up a new refugee settlement in Tunaydbah,
Gedaref state, rolling out lifesaving assistance to the newly displaced. ; More than 62,000 refugees have fled
Ethiopia’s Tigray region to Sudan’s Tunaydbah settlement and Um Rakuba camp, each with over 20,000 peo-
ple. Majority are women, children and the elderly.
I©
n tUNHCR/AHMED
er-agency Refu KWARTE
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PLANNING SCENARIO
Planning Scenario -
SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
Planning Scenario
Risk Analysis
The fighting in the Tigray region in Ethiopia could lead to large scale displacement with an influx across the border
into East Sudan. The costed planning scenario is for 120,000 arrivals until the end of 2021, given that over 50,000
refugees have arrived in Kassala and Gedaref over the first 6 months and over 7,000 have come to Blue Nile. While
Hamdayet, Kassala is the official border crossing from Ethiopia’s Tigray region to Sudan, new arrivals are arriving
across the Lugdi area in Gedaref, and possibly at other entry points. Six entry points have been identified in Blue
Nile. Overall, the border is porous and many informal crossing points are possible. Experience of refugee influxes in
Eastern Sudan also indicates that informal border points will be used and thus the scenario includes the arrivals at
other points. In this scenario, transportation will be arranged to collect refugees and transport them to either transit
centres or reception centres whichever is closer.
The Tigray region of Ethiopia is also host to 95,929 Eritrean refugees, some of whom might decide to move to
Sudan in case of close fighting or due to reduced humanitarian assistance because of supply constraints and the
evacuation of humanitarian workers.
There has been increasing ethic violence in Benishangul-Gumuz and internal displacement is likely to increase as
the situation in Tigray worsens. Ongoing conflict between armed groups in Metekel zone has already internally
displaced some 17,000 people and the displacement is likely to increase. The upcoming election in Ethiopia is a
further factor that could trigger additional displacement.
The operation will take a proactive and dynamic approach to risk management. The key risks and mitigation actions
are detailed in the table below.
RISK
S/N RISK IMPACT PROBABILITY MITIGATION
LEVEL
C O NT E XT R ISK
Large scale influx of refugees 1. Consultations with host community
has negative impact on local on site selection.
1 communities through use of land Major Likely Major 2. Host community in proximity to
and increased demand on local refugees sites are benefiting from
markets the provided assistance.
During the rainy season
1. Site selection takes accessibility
refugees hosting sites and
2 Major Likely Major into account.
border points become
2. Prepositioning of relief items.
inaccessible
1. Screening of new arrivals by
Risk of influx of armed elements Sudanese authorities.
3 Major Possible Likely
mixed with civilian arrivals 2. Separation of armed elements
and civilians at the border entry.
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SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
RISK
S/N RISK IMPACT PROBABILITY MITIGATION
LEVEL
1. Advocacy at RCF and East Sudan/
Risk of resources are diverted Blue Nile RWG to maintain current
4 from current refugee caseload Major Possible Likely assistance for existing caseload.
to new arrivals 2. Timely restocking and
replacement of diverted resources.
D E LIVE RY R ISKS
1. Comprehensive mobilisation of
emergency response capacities by
all actors including advocacy on
HCT level for timely visa and travel
issuance.
2. Apply a risk-based approach to
partner selection and monitoring.
3. Preposition relief stocks in
Eastern Sudan/Blue Nile.
4. Supply frame agreements
The inter-agency refugee
established.
response with existing
5. Inter-agency response plan and
5 capacities on the ground is Major Likely Major
donor appeal issued.
overwhelmed by the scale and
6. Additional organizations deploy
speed of the mass influx
emergency teams to Eastern Sudan.
7. Consultation with authorities on
sufficient and adequate land
allocation to establish new refugee
settlements (in line with Sudan
pledges at GRF).
8. Level 2 registration of all
refugees.
9. Clear roles and responsibilities for
coordination and response.
1. Revised frame agreements with
transporters.
2. Joint HCT advocacy with the
Government for quick release of
emergency related relief items
Serious supply chain disruptions
through customs.
in sourcing, procuring or
3. Review of access routes to
6 transporting relief items due to Major Likely Major
anticipated operational locations
COVID-19-related movement
and road repairs initiated.
restrictions
4. Submit request for blanket
customs clearance request to MoFA.
5. Consider market-based
approaches to programming.
6. Plan procurement with partners.
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RISK
S/N RISK IMPACT PROBABILITY MITIGATION
LEVEL
S EC U R IT Y AND SAF E T Y R ISK
1. Ongoing contextual security
analysis.
2. Staff safety measures in place
7 Insecurity in border areas Major Possible Major
3. Organize accelerated movement
of refugees away from the border
areas.
1. Implementation of strict health
protocols.
Risk of COVID-19 outbreak or
2. Quick decongestion of transit and
8 outbreak of other communicable Major Likely Major
reception centres.
diseases
3. Integrated vector control
measures.
1. Conduct PSEA refresher training
for UN, NGO, and Government
counterpart staff participating in the
response.
2. Prepare a PSEA Action Plans for
Increasing risk environment for
camp settings.
9 sexual exploitation and abuse Major Likely Major
3. Establish Community-Based
(SEA).
Complaints Mechanism, inclusive of
SEA.
4. Agencies and NGOs commit to
IASC Accountability to Affected
Populations principles.
1. Collaboration with various sectors
to address risks – energy, shelter,
Underreporting of GBV and WASH, Food etc.
limited understanding of 2. Conduct continuous outreach on
available services. Barriers to GBV referral pathways, strengthen
reporting such as stigma and quality and adherence to the GBV
fear of retaliation exist. guiding principles to enhance trust
Increasing stress reported as a in services.
significant contributing factor to 3. Implement programming to
10 Major Likely Major
violence. Lack of patrolling and address harmful attitudes and
policing leading to increased victim-blaming.
insecurity, especially at night- 4. Liaise with coordination entities to
time and in the surroundings of support peaceful coexistence
the camp. Lack of peaceful measures to sensitise and improve
coexistence with surrounding relations with surrounding
community poses a risk. community.
5.Strengthen policing, access to
justice and address impunity.
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RISK
S/N RISK IMPACT PROBABILITY MITIGATION
LEVEL
S EC U R IT Y AND SAF E T Y R ISK
High levels of anxiety and 1. Prioritize duty of care to staff and
exhaustion amongst staff due to implement active internal
heavy workload, inadequate communications plan.
accommodation and disruptions 2. Regularly advise staff on
11 to R&R and annual leave, Major Likely Major psychosocial support available,
leading to reduced field including peer advisor network and
presence, decreased telehealth.
productivity and possible 3. Regularly review field office BCPs
burn-out. to ensure operational coverage.
1. Strict implementation of COVID-19
Impact of COVID-19:
protocols.
• C19 environment increases
2. Regularly advise staff on available
stress amongst staff.
support mechanisms (psychological
• Outbreaks of C19 staff and
support, telehealth, etc.)
12 related quarantine measures Major Likely Major
3. Regular review field office BCPs
reduces field presence.
to ensure operational coverage.
• Potential medical evacuations.
4. Plan for staff contingencies in
• Disruptions in staff deployment
case quarantine measures are
due to travel restrictions.
causing shortage of staff.
1. Include host community in
response planning.
Rising tensions between
2. Extend services to host
13 refugees and asylum seekers Major Likely Major
communities.
and host communities.
3. Regular communication with host
community leaders.
UNHCR registration process of the newly arrived refugees at Um Rakuba camp in Gedaref State. UNHCR is
13 I n t e r - a g e n c y R e f u g e e collecting
E m e r g e n cinformation
y R e s p o n sfrom
e P l refugees
a n – E t hto
i o provide
p i a S i t ulifesaving
ation > Massistance.
AY 2 0 2 1
© UNHCR/AHMED KWARTEPlanning Scenario -
SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
Planning Scenario
The overall worst-case planning scenario foresees an influx of 300,000 refugees from Ethiopia until the end of 2021
into Kassala, Gedaref and Blue Nile. This includes Ethiopian nationals, Eritrean refugees hosted in Ethiopia’s Tigray
region, and possibly other third-country nationals (Somalis, Yemenis). The likely planning scenario for the costed
response plan is 120,000 arrivals.
The response to this mass refugee influx will cover the following operational sites:
Kassala and Gedaref
• At least three major border entry points (Hamdayet (Kassala), Lugdi (Gedaref) and Abdrafi (Gedaref) which
have witnessed arrivals since November 2020).
• Continuous response at the 2 newly established refugee sites at Um Rakuba and Tunaydbah in Gedaref
state.
• With an average size of 20,000 individuals per settlement / camp, the response may require the
establishment of several new refugee camp or settlement sites, at different locations; this may also include
the re-opening of former refugee camp sites throughout the region.
Blue Nile
• At least six major border entry points in Wad Al Mahi and Gaisan locality (Yabacher, Deem Saad, Menza,
Manchaleng, Magano and Shamfoz).
• Response at the identified refugee site at camp 6 with a max capacity of 20,000.
The profile of asylum seekers is expected to be from the Tigray, Amhara and Benishangul-Gumuz regions in
Ethiopia. Eritrean refugees residing in Ethiopia are likely to move to existing camps in Sudan and seek asylum. Initial
population profiles from ongoing influxes indicate approx. 30% are children. Additionally, 20,000 Sudanese
returnees are expected to arrive in Sudan, mostly in Blue Nile state. This scenario also accounts for health and
protection concerns, similar to those in previous waves of arrivals, namely persons with specific needs (PSN),
malnutrition, and possibly TB and HIV. Large numbers of unaccompanied or separated children (UASC) are also
anticipated, along with persons in need of psycho-social support. Inside Tigray, serious human rights abuses have
been reported including sexual violence¹. Incidents have been reported by refugees after reaching Sudan and
lifesaving services are available. COVID-19 precautionary measures will be taken into consideration when defining
response plan, particularly in high concentration zones like transit and reception centres.
¹ See SRSG CRSV, available from https://www.un.org/sexualviolenceinconflict/press-release/united-nations-special-representative-of-the-secre-
tary-general-on-sexual-violence-in-conflict-ms-pramila-patten-urges-all-parties-to-prohibit-the-use-of-sexual-violence-and-cease-hostilities-in-the/.
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REFUGEE POPULATION PLANNING FIGURES (WORST CASE SCENARIO)
Refugee mass influx from Ethiopia Additional influx anticipated under
Total Planning Figure
since 9 November 2020, as of 31 May the planning scenario until
2021
2021 ² December 2021
KASSALA & GE DA R EF
45,152 154,848 200,000
BLUE NILE
7,434 92,566 100,000
TOTAL
52,586 247,414 300,000
REFUGEE POPULATION PLANNING FIGURES (LIKELY SCENARIO AND PLANNING ASSUMPTION FOR THIS COSTED
RESPONSE PLAN)
Refugee mass influx from Ethiopia Additional influx anticipated under Total Planning Figure
since 9 November 2020, as of 31 May the planning scenario until 2021
2021 ² December 2021
KASSALA & GE DA R EF
45,152 54,848 100,000
BLUE NILE
7,434 12,566 20,000
TOTAL
52,586 67,414 120,000
% of expected new arrivals (based on refugee population
DISAGGREGATED DATA
profile of influx so far)
Women and Girls 36% of new arrivals
Men and Boys 64% of new arrivals
Children (0 < 17 years old) 27% of new arrivals
Adults (18 - 59 years old) 69% of new arrivals
Elderly (> 60 years old) 4% of new arrivals
² Figures from Blue Nile are as of 8 June 2021.
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SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
Response Objectives
Strategic Objective (1): Support the Government of Sudan in maintaining access to territory and asylum for all
individuals who seek to flee to the country, through the provision of related refugee protection services, including
registration.
Strategic Objective (2): Timely decongestion of border entry points, and settlement of refugees in designated
sites suitable for hosting large numbers of people.
Strategic Objective (3): Provision of multi-sectoral life-saving humanitarian assistance for all new arrivals at border
points and in designated settlement sites as well as for vulnerable host communities.
Strategic Objective (4): Persons with specific needs and vulnerable persons are identified and provided with
targeted services.
Ethiopian refugees waiting to receive a World Food Programme distribution at the Um Rakuba camp in Gedaref state, Sudan.
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© UNHCR/WILL SWANSONOPERATIONAL RESPONSE
STRATEGYOperational Response Strategy -
SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION
Operational Response Strategy
1. Border Entry Points (Collection Points and Transit Centres in the Border Area):
Given the ongoing and anticipated influx, the main assistance objectives are to provide essential life-saving
assistance services and ensure refugees and asylum seekers do not stay longer than 24 hours at these locations.
Timely onward transport of new arrivals will ensure physical safety and prevents issues related to congestion and
over-crowding, as well as reducing risk of GBV, Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), family separation,
communicable diseases, continuous cross border movements and potential exploitation by unidentified armed
groups. Should the decongestion efforts not keep up with the pace of the influx, additional assistance services at
these sites may be provided in consultation with the government to meet basic humanitarian needs.
The Government of Sudan will conduct screening at entry points to maintain the civilian character of asylum.
Combatants that are identified by the government will be separated and transferred to a separate facility.
The following assistance services will be provided at border entry points:
SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
General Protection:
• Border monitoring and reporting by UNHCR and COR.
• Initial refugee registration (household level, given the fast pace of the influx) by COR
/ UNHCR.
• Referral of third-country nationals.
• Distribution of tokens to fix the population and prevent family separation.
• Protection desks, with referral to adequate services and identification of persons
with specific needs.
• Provision of information and counselling on access to essential services.
• Refugee transport from border points to designated settlement sites (buses/trucks;
convoy security escort; convoy ambulance).
PROTECTION • Communicating with communities to ensure access to information on protection and
safety, i.e. SEA, free access to services.
Child Protection:
• Child protection support, including identification of UASC, family reunification.
• MHPSS and Children Associated with Armed Conflicts and community-based child
protection mechanism.
Gender Based Violence (GBV):
• Clinical care for survivors of sexual violence.
• Psychological first aid and referrals for additional services.
• Immediate relocation where safety concerns are present.
19 I n t e r - a g e n c y Re f u g e e E m e r g e n c y Re s p o n s e P l a n – E t h i o p i a S i t u a t i o n > M AY 2 0 2 1Operational Response Strategy -
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SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
• Transport of relief items to border points.
LOGISTICS
• Warehousing of relief items.
• Multipurpose structures and shades integrating gender sensitivity, privacy measures
and GBV risk mitigation measures.
• Dignity kits for all women and girls.
• In case of extended stay at the border points: Standard NFI kit per household (HH):
o 4 Sleeping mats.
SHELTER/ NON-FOOD ITEMS (NFIS) o 4 Blankets.
o Face mask (C19 prevention): 1 / ind.
o 2 Jerry can.
o Soap bar (250g): 1 / ind.
o Mosquito net 2 / HH.
• Cooking fuel (for communal kitchen in transit centres).
• Safe drinking water according to emergency standards (15 l//ind./day). While this
may initially include water trucking, the response will prioritise from the start the
establishment of sustainable water sources, so that water trucking can be phased out
as soon as possible. This may include repair / rehabilitation of existing water systems,
expanding pipe networks, new boreholes, and putting in place additional water
storage.
• Communal latrines according to emergency standards (1 latrine / 50 ind.; separated
WASH
for women and men).
• Water treatment, including chlorine and purification tablets.
• Bath shelters, separate for women and men.
• Solid waste bins and solid waste disposal.
• Handwashing stations.
• Hygiene promotion including on menstrual hygiene management.
• Integrated vector management at the entry sites.
• Wet feeding (cooked meals).
FOOD • High Energy Biscuits.
• Monthly dry rations (only in Hamdayet).
• Health and nutrition screening on arrival. This will include medical triage, Covid-19
screening and risk communication, identification and referral of malnourished.
children, identification of individuals on long term treatment for chronic illness such as
diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
• Vaccination.
HEALTH & NUTRITION
• Primary health care services including services for sexual, reproductive and
new-born health, nutrition services.
• MUAC screening exercise and filtering of under-fives and PLW.
• Emergency Referrals.
• Disease surveillance.
• Management of livestock.
• Holding place / fodder for larger animals or large numbers of animals.
• Provide lifesaving livestock support applying (Livestock Emergency Guidelines and
LIVE L I H OODS
Standards) LEGS.
• Distribution of appropriate containers for seed storage.
• Daily monitoring of refugee livestock, crops and environmental impact.
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SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
General Protection:
• Household pre-registration (in case not done at the border) and issuance of ID cards
by COR / UNHCR.
• Identification of persons with specific needs; initial assistance and referral.
• Protection desks.
• Mental health and psychosocial support.
• Solutions, including voluntary repatriation, resettlement, relocation within Sudan.
• Community based protection.
• Peaceful co-existence activities, involving host community.
• RST for most sensitive and urgent cases (example – high profile cases without
PROTECTION exclusion concerns, active cases of former Eritrean refugees from Ethiopia, etc.).
Child Protection:
• Child protection, including identification of UASC, family tracing and reunification,
child friendly spaces and birth registration.
Gender Based Violence (GBV):
• Risk mitigation, prevention and referral pathway/support for GBV survivors, including
safe houses.
• Dissemination of awareness messages and information about the available GBV
services.
• Management of the reception centre and coordination of all actors.
• Establish two-way communication/complaint & feedback mechanisms.
SITE COORDINATION & • Establish information management systems to map services.
MANAGEMENT • Establish community representation structures with equal representation of women.
• Monitor service delivery and standards and ensure GBV risk mitigation measures
are in place.
• Communal shelter and shades;
SITE CONSTRUCTION • Construction of all site infrastructure; site preparation for capacity of minimum 1,000
SHELTER/ NON-FOOD ITEMS (NFIS) individuals.
• Agency offices in proximity to reception centre
• Safe drinking water according to emergency standards (15//ind./day). While this may
initially include water trucking, the response will prioritise from the start the
establishment of sustainable water sources, so that water trucking can be phased out
as soon as possible. This may include repair / rehabilitation of existing water systems,
expanding pipe networks, new boreholes, and putting in place additional water
storage.
• Communal latrines according to emergency standards (1 latrine / 50 ind.; separate.
WASH for women and men) with adequate lighting.
• Bath shelters, separate for women and men.
• Solid waste bins and solid waste disposal.
• Hygiene promotion including on menstrual hygiene.
• Hand washing stations.
• Soap provision (at least 450g/p/m).
• Water quality testing (Bacteriological H2S kit).
• Integrated vector control management.
• Wet feeding (cooked meals).
FOOD
• High Energy Biscuits if needed.
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SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
• Health and nutrition screening and triage on arrival and provision of essential
supplies including IEHKs, LLINs, life-saving medicines, clean delivery kits and nutrition
supplies.
• Emergency referral for primary and secondary health services
• Reproductive health services.
• Provision of PEP kits and condoms.
• COVID-19 prevention and control interventions including risk communication,
contact tracing and isolation and referral of suspected cases.
HEALTH & NUTRITION
• Promotion of best practices in Infant and Young Children Feeding (IYCF).
• Psychological first aid.
• Disease surveillance.
• EPI services and coverage of the M AKWARTE
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In case of a daily influx of less than 100 individuals per day refugees will be relocated form the border points directly
to the settlement / camp sites where emergency shelter and WASH facilities will be prepared before their arrival
Services provided in the home plot areas of the settlement / camp sites:
SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
General Protection:
• Individual biometric refugee registration by COR / UNHCR.
• Identification of persons with specific needs; initial assistance and referral.
• Mental health and psychosocial support
• Protection desks.
• Provision of information and counselling on access to essential services.
• Collaborative dispute resolution mechanism for potential conflict over resources.
• Positioning of CMR kits for medical response to sexual violence cases.
• Undertake activities to promote peaceful co-existence within and amongst refugee
camp and host communities.
• Solutions, including voluntary repatriation, resettlement, relocation within Sudan.
• RST for most sensitive and urgent cases (example – high profile cases without
exclusion concerns, active cases of former Eritrean refugees from Ethiopia, etc.).
PROTECTION
Child Protection:
• Child protection, including identification of UASC, child friendly spaces and birth
registration.
• implementation of case management system for all children at heightened risk.
• Initiate family tracing and reunification for unaccompanied and separated children.
Gender Based Violence (GBV):
• Establish GBV referral pathways.
• GBV case management, psycho-social support for women and men.
• Clinical care for survivors of GBV.
• Women’s and Girls Safe Spaces.
• Access to legal assistance.
• Awareness raising and social and behaviour change communication.
• Management of the camp / settlement, and coordination of all actors.
• Establish two-way communication/complaint & feedback mechanisms inclusive of
SITE COORDINATION & PSEA reporting channels.
MANAGEMENT • Establish information management systems for service mapping.
• Establish community representation structures with equal representation of women.
• Monitor service delivery and standards.
• Site planning and layout to enhance safety and protection.
• Site preparation, including levelling if necessary, access roads.
• Construction of gender-sensitive communal facilities.
• Plot demarcation.
• Provision of emergency shelter (tents).
SITE CONSTRUCTION
• Provision of transitional shelter (rakoubas).
SHELTER/ NON-FOOD ITEMS (NFIS)
• Distribution of NFI kits in home plot areas; standard NFI kit per HH of 5 ind.
(assuming that a partial kit was received at the border point; if not: full kit of border
point + camp distribution scale):
o plastic sheets: 2 / HH
o kitchen set: 1 / HH
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SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
o Solar lantern: 1 / HH
o jerry can: 2 / HH (if not already distributed at border point)
o mosquito nets: 2 / HH (if not already distributed at border point)
SITE CONSTRUCTION
o face masks: 2 / ind. (COVID-19 prevention
SHELTER/ NON-FOOD ITEMS (NFIS)
• Regular Distribution of dignity kits for all women and girls.
• Start construction of durable shelter solution (Tukul) in 2021, ensure specialized
support to PSN where required.
• Safe drinking water according to emergency standards (15//ind./day), if needed
establishment/rehabilitation of water sources. Initial supply of drinking water through
water trucking. Establishment of sustainable water supply systems after max. 4
months.
• Initial: Communal latrines according to emergency standards (1 latrine / 50 ind.;
gender separated). After max. 4 months shift to permanent latrines according to
minimum standards (1 latrine / 20 ind.); gender separated with adequate lighting.
• Establishment and training of water management committees.
WASH
• Hygiene promotion, including menstrual hygiene.
• Solid waste management and solid waste bins including for menstrual products.
• Hand washing stations.
• Soap provision (at least 450g/p/m).
• Water quality testing (Bacteriological H2S kit).
• Laundry area.
• Supply and distribution of household water treatment products.
• Integrated vector control management.
• Gender sensitive distribution of monthly food assistance.
FOOD
• Provide wet feeding or HEBs over the first three days after arrival.
• Provision of safe, effective and efficient access to beneficiaries and project
implementation sites to NGOs, UN agencies, donor organizations and diplomatic
missions in Sudan.
• Transportation of light cargo such as medical supplies, high energy foods and
information and communications technology (ICT) equipment as well as PPEs.
• Provision of adequate capacity for medical and security evacuations of humanitarian
LOGISTICS staff.
Emergency Telecommunications:
• Provide common internet connectivity for humanitarians in Gedaref and Blue Nile.
• Improve the access to connectivity for refugees to enable services such as online
education.
• Coordination of security telecommunications services at the operational areas.
• Primary health care services (initially possibly mobile clinics before construction of
semi-permanent structures).
• Prevention and control of communicable diseases including vaccination and
mainstreaming of Covid-19 interventions (risk communication, identification, isolation
and management of individuals with Covid-19 infection).
• Management of non-communicable diseases (AWD, ARI).
HEALTH & NUTRITION
• Emergency referrals with adequately equipped ambulances.
• Mental Health and Psychosocial Support.
• Provision of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP).
• Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) including SAM with
complication, SAM without complications and MAM treatment.
• Routine Active case findings and MUAC screening.
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SECTOR RESPONSE / ACTION
• Promotion of best practices in Infant and Young Children Feeding (IYCF).
• Malaria prevention and treatment (LLNs, medicines).
• Event based disease surveillance.
• Health promotion.
• Emergency blanket supplementary feeding for the first three months.
HEALTH & NUTRITION
• Targeted supplementary feeding for three months.
• EPI services and coverage of the M AY 2 0 2 1 26Operational Response Strategy - SUDAN: INTER-AGENCY REFUGEE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN - REFUGEE INFLUX FROM ETHIOPIA | REVISION 3. Contingency for additional refugee sites: While the newly established refugee site in Blue Nile state has capacity to accommodate the expected arrival figure of 20,000 arrivals, the two newly established refugee sites, Um Rakuba and Tunaydbah in Gedaref state, are close to full capacity. For the potential arrival of further 45,000 refugees additional sites should be identified to ensure timely movement from the border points to identified sites. This will incorporate agreements with COR on additional sites for 45,000 refugees as well as preliminary arrangements with host communities 4. Flood preparedness and response strategy: In preparation of the 2021 rainy season and the flood risk at the refugee sites in Eastern Sudan a flood preparedness plan has been prepared for the refugee response in Um Rakuba and Tunaydbah. However, some of the proposed interventions can be applied in other locations depending on the context. The plan was prepared through a consultative process involving the humanitarian community in Gedaref and Kassala and is referenced here. The plan contains multi-sectoral mitigation and response measures to address the expected impact of the rainy season on the refugee sites. More details are given in the FLOOD PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE PLAN issued on 31 March 2021. The flood preparedness and response strategy consist of the following components: a) Protection: Flood preparedness is essential for the protection of refugees and to create conditions where refugees can live in safety and with dignity without fear. Factors to enhance protection from violence, safety from accidents and privacy considerations are integrated into the response. To ensure less disruptions and to keep children safe in schools, temporary learning centres located in flood prone areas to be relocated. All flood preparedness interventions must include GBV aspects. b) Prepositioning: Before the start of the rainy season in May essential drugs and medical supplies, including core relief items, including dignity kits, PEP kits and food will be prepositioned at the refugee sites to ensure availability if access is limited during the rainy season. c) Structural mitigation: Structural mitigation includes the identification of flood prone areas and relocation of household shelter to less affected areas. Further, access to the sites is improved by upgrading roads to the refugee sites as well as improving the road conditions inside the sites. Emergency latrines will be decommissioned and replaced with permanent latrines. Drainage channels will be dug and maintained to direct water flows away from the refugee sites. Hygiene promotion will be strengthened to avoid outbreaks of water borne diseases. d) Health: Apart from prepositioning of medical supplies and drugs health facilities will be elevated to protect against flooding. Sites for cholera treatments centres will be identified and capacities for inpatient treatment/stabilization of patients including stabilization centres for severe acute malnutrition treatment will be expanded at the health facilities and field hospitals in the camps. 27 I n t e r - a g e n c y Re f u g e e E m e r g e n c y Re s p o n s e P l a n – E t h i o p i a S i t u a t i o n > M AY 2 0 2 1
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5. COVID-19 protocols at all sites and assistance points:
The mass influx takes place in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is likely that individuals involved in this
response, including persons of concern, may be affected by C19. While social distancing in the context of a mass
influx is difficult to maintain, the following COVID-19 prevention measures will be implemented:
• C19 risk communication and sensitisation at all operational sites (in the language of the refugees, or in
pictures). Specific outreach to marginalised community members will be undertaken.
• Distribution of soap and installation of hand washing facilities.
• Health screening at all transit locations and the health facilities.
• Distribution of face masks as part of the NFI kit at all sites.
• Provision of face masks during transportation for the border entry point to the camps.
• Establishment of C19 isolation facilities at all transit sites and in the camp.
• Establishment of clear pathways for testing suspected patients, case management and referrals.
• Referral system to isolation centres with ICU units with adequately equipped ambulances and with trained
staff for severe Covid-19 patients.
• The provision of Ag-rapid test kits at the health service delivery points.
• Scale up of NPHL laboratory testing facilities in Gedaref and Kassala.
• Printing and dissemination of C19 SOPs, guidelines, and protocols for first line responders
6. Accountability to Affected Populations:
Refugees will be included in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all response activities by soliciting,
hearing, and acting upon the voices and priorities of women, girls, boys, men, including the most marginalized and
at-risk people among affected communities. All sectors of the community have the right to participate in and play an
active role in decisions that will impact their lives, well-being, dignity, and protection. Assistance will be standardized,
and refugees will receive clear and tailored information about the content of provided and available assistance. The
humanitarian community will consult with and integrate host communities in their humanitarian response planning
and implementation to avoid social tension and address existing vulnerabilities. It will coordinate, establish and
support the implementation of a common, accessible, and confidential communication mechanisms in each camp for
refugees to provide feedback on received services, and report complaints including SEA-related complaints.
Humanitarians involved in the response will close the feedback loop by making further improvement in programmes
and offer services that are appropriate, useful, timely, and meet the needs identified by the refugees and other
affected populations.
7. Modality of assistance provision:
Especially at the border points, the modality for initial support to households is in-kind, as refugees often arrive with
few belongings and need immediate material support. The capacity of local markets at the borders is surpassed by
the needs of refugees in terms of essential household and food items. At the newly established refugee and asylum
seeker sites in Gedaref markets have started to establish themselves and responding organizations have carried out
assessments on cash feasibility and implemented the first cash-based intervention pilots. With further stabilization of
the sites cash based interventions will be increasingly considered in the response.
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Staff Safety and Security
Kassala and Gedaref
The current security situation in Kassala state is normal, but unpredictable. The area witnessed tribal conflict and
fighting between Nuba and Bani Amir/ Bija and Bani Amir. These factors led the state government to declare a state
of emergency in the state for three months effective from Sunday 30th August 2020.
Travel outside of Kassala and Gedaref city needs to be carefully planned. It is advised to track team movements and
maintain regular radio contact with the office. It is advised to have a Sat phone and satnav in all vehicles. All field
teams should be equipped with sat phones. Road travel should only be carried out after sunrise and before sunset.
Field accommodation should be preapproved.
The security situation in the state of Gedaref is volatile. Armed conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and
Ethiopian militia units in the border areas dominate the overall security incidents reported in the state. The border
areas within the state are the main areas where these militias operate. There are several Ethiopian militia settlements
within Al-Fashaga, Gureisha and Basunda localities, from where they stage their attacks against SAF and its interests
in the state. From time to time, these militiamen resort to kidnapping of Sudanese merchants and farmers in the
border areas either for ransom or for material gains.
In addition, the economic situation in the state has fuelled several demonstrations by the community expressing their
dissatisfaction with the prices of fuel and supplies in addition to the lack of basic services and job opportunities.
Blue Nile
The general security situation in Blue Nile State is calm with the eastern part of the state bordering Ethiopia
considered safe and secure for humanitarian operation. The major security threats are:
• Violent socio-political protests
• Armed robberies
• House break-ins
These threats are mainly in built-up areas and along Main Supply Routes (MSR).
The southern part of the state, in addition, have considerable hazard related to land mines and UXOs. Additional
hazards are as follows:
1. The area is malaria prone throughout the year.
2. Cholera epidemic is frequent due to poor hygiene.
3. Poor road conditions out of Damazine with very difficult access during the rainy season.
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4. Limited capacity of housing and hotels.
5. Cyclic fuel, bread, electricity and water shortages.
6. Lack of approved overnight facilities in deep field areas.
7. The area is known for floods during rainy season.
8. Limited capacity of medical facilities specially in the deep field locations.
A refugee from Ethiopia carries a pot to receive a hot meal at the Hamdayet border reception centre in Sudan.
31 I n t e r - a g e n c y R e f u g e e E m e r g e n c y R e s p o n s e P l a n – E t h i o p i©
a UNHCR/WILL SWANSON
Situation > M AY 2 0 2 1INTER-AGENCY COORDINATION
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Inter-Agency Coordination
In terms of inter-agency coordination, the Refugee Coordination Model is implemented in Sudan. COR and UNHCR
lead the refugee response and work in close partnership with UN and NGOs. At national level, COR and UNHCR
co-chair the Refugee Consultation Forum (RCF), attended by all UN and NGOs working on refugee issues. The RCF
is the main forum for macro-level response planning, coordination and policy as well the development of guidance.
The RCF is supported by technical advisory groups, with engagement of the IASC sector coordination groups on
standards and technical specifications. COR/UNHCR will continue to lead inter-agency planning, monitoring and
reporting of the Country Refugee Response Plan (CRP) for Sudan, as well as related preparedness and contingency
planning.
Operational coordination at field level takes place in the Refugee Working Groups (RWGs), co-chaired by UNHCR
and COR. Specifically, the inter-agency response to the refugee influx from Ethiopia is coordinated by the RWG in
Gedaref and Blue Nile state (Damazine). The RWGs coordinate the multi-sector refugee response and should be
attended at senior management level. Both RWG will ensure close cooperation with OCHA led state level
coordination structures in Gedaref, Kassala and Blue Nile.
For the response in Kassala and Gedaref state, and specifically for this refugee mass influx from Ethiopia, the
following refugee sector working groups have been established:
SECTOR CO-LEADS
PROTECTION CoR & UNHCR
PROTECTION SUB-SECTOR GROUPS ON:
CHILD PROTECTION, UNICEF & UNHCR
SGBV UNHCR & UNFPA
DURABLE SOLUTIONS UNDP & UNHCR
COMMUNICATION WITH COMMUNITIES UNHCR & COR
SHELTER, SITE PREPARATION & NFI UNHCR & WHH
LOGISTICS WFP
WASH UNICEF & UNHCR
HEALTH & NUTRITION ARC & UNHCR
MHPSS SUB-SECTOR NCA & UNHCR
EDUCATION UNICEF & UNHCR
FOOD SECURITY & LIVELIHOODS WFP & FAO
ENERGY AND DURABLE SOLUTIONS UNDP & UNHCR
INFORMATION MANAGEMENT UNHCR
CASH BASED INTERVENTIONS NRC & UNHCR
EMERGENCY TELECOMMUNICATIONS UNHCR
33 I n t e r - a g e n c y Re f u g e e E m e r g e n c y Re s p o n s e P l a n – E t h i o p i a S i t u a t i o n > M AY 2 0 2 1You can also read
